Question about codecs.....

If I'm running a 64bit system (Win7 for example), why would I need a 64bit codec pack? I run 64bit Win7 on my home PC with the KLite Mega Codec Pack and haven't had a codec issue in a very very long time (since I ran XP Pro). This pack is not a 64bit pack. So, is there really a need for a 64bit codec pack on a 64bit OS? The only time I tried a 64bit codec pack turned out kind of ugly and I went back to the 32bit KLite Mega pack.... so, what gives?

:confused

THX

 

It is so you can get proper playback in both 32 and 64 bit applications. Since both can co-exist on a machine.

 

I understand that... but if the 32bit codec packs work fine, why even bother with a 64bit pack? Are there some 64bit programs that require 64bit codecs? If so, what are these programs? And at this time, are they necessary? Is there any benefit to running a 64bit media player w/ a 64bit codec pack over running 32bit versions of the same?

I guess this is what I really trying to ask in the first place :-o

 

The point of having a x64 capable processor and a 64-bit operating system is to be able to run 64-bit applications, and use memory that is not accessible in a 32-bit environment and to 32-bit applications.

When I look at my Program Files folder (64-bit applications) I can see that it contains a lot less than the Program Files (x86) folder. This means that the majority of my programs are 32-bit.

This also means that I want to run as many 64-bit programs as possible, in order to use the memory that is not accessible to the 32-bit programs. And in order to fully use 64-bit browsers or media players, 64-bit codecs may be required.

 

Yeah, I noticed the same thing a couple years ago when I first started using x64 Win7.... anayway, thanks for the explanation. It just seems that 64bit applications haven't really "taken off" in a big way yet, and I personally have not had any reason to run 64bit media players and/or use 64bit codecs, at least I haven't had a reason yet... everything plays fine using a 32bit player (Media Player Classic) and 32bit codec pack (KLite Mega), and the one time I tried a 64bit play & codec pack was problematic. I don't remember which player I used, nor do I remember the exact problems I had (I seem to remember seeing some "unable to render" errors on video files that played perfectly with a 32bit player & codec pack).....

Anyway - thanks again!

 

I use the 64 bit Windows Media Center and the Shark 007 codecs without issue.

 

This is abit off topic but still somewhat related.
I had an awful time trying to play MP4 files and codecs were just not helping. I installed Ashampoo and Mp 4 files are playing fine with no converter.
Beside your basic issue I hope you find this somewhat helpful.